This decree was issued to the people of Kadesh, which was part of the Hittite Empire at the time. Although Ramesses failed to conquer Kadesh, this decree was written to show an example of how the people of a conquered country would be addressed. Archaeologists found evidence that he believed he was a God to his people, and he was to be worshiped just like all the other Gods and Goddesses.
O people of Kadesh, you are now remetch en Kermet(People of the Black Land). I, Ramesess II, The God of this Land, command you to abide by the law and value the ma’at. The Goddess of harmony, justice, and balance. It is crucial for you to live peacefully, in accordance with the ma’at.
I find it necessary to address that law is not a matter that should be taken lightly. As for the transgressors and wrongdoers, they will be punished harshly. One charged with crimes is guilty unless he/she is proven innocent. If one was to steal something, they could be dealt with in many ways. The punishment could be amputation of the hand, returning the item and a fine double its worth, 100 hits with a cane, or 5 bleeding cuts. People who are consistent transgressors will be branded, to be a sign of dishonor. It’s also commanded for you to respect the government officials, those wearing a gold Ma’at pendant. Any crime against the government is death by decapitation, burning alive, drowning, or by impalement by a stake. Aside from law, we value education and religion. Our scribes teach everything from reading, writing, medicine, mathematics, to astronomy. Religion and morals are taught by our temple priests to locals and nobles. As the people of Kadesh, you have the choice of placing your children in two schools. One being for commoners and villagers, and the other for those who wish to become a priest or scribe. School begins in the morning, with a break midday, and continues till afternoon. Your children will attend school at the age of 8, except girls, they are to be taught by the mother. Things such as reading, sewing, cooking, cleaning, and writing if possible. We value both girls and boys, and things such as infanticide will not be allowed. Young boys are expected to follow their father’s occupation and provide for their family. People living here marry young and as soon as possible. Young men from the age of 16-20, and women after they get their first menses. On the subject of men looking for jobs, most jobs are inherited. Those who still have jobs in the Kadesh region, are required to pay a certain amount of goods, just like all remetch en Kermet. However, enrollment in the army is always an option, in order to provide for one’s family.
Ancient Egypt 